The Nigerian Army has firmly denied the authenticity of a widely circulated message on social media claiming that residents of the Southeast region must observe a compulsory “sit-at-home” order. The military described the message as a deliberate attempt by criminal groups to instil unnecessary fear among the public.
In a formal statement issued on Thursday, the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for the Eighty Two Division of the Nigerian Army, Lieutenant Colonel Olabisi Ayeni, clarified that the threats were baseless and crafted to destabilise the region. Okay News reports that the Army emphasised its commitment to ensuring that residents continue their normal activities without fear.
According to Lieutenant Colonel Ayeni, “The threat message is designed to create fear in the public domain, disrupt sources of livelihood, and destabilise the South East region.” He stressed that the Nigerian Army, working collaboratively with other security agencies, had intensified security surveillance and deployment across the region to guarantee the safety of law-abiding citizens.
The spokesperson assured residents that there was no legitimate directive restricting movement or business activities. “We wish to unequivocally assure the good people of the South East that such threats are baseless. Freedom of movement is protected, and residents are free to conduct their lawful activities without fear or hindrance,” Ayeni noted.
He warned, however, that any individuals or groups attempting to enforce the circulating false directive would face legal consequences. “Criminal elements are warned… anyone attempting to enforce any unfounded illegal order will be decisively dealt with according to the law,” he stated.
The Nigerian Army also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities promptly, adding that early vigilance remains a key component of security maintenance. As Ayeni cautioned residents, “If you see something, please say something.”
